As an experienced roofer, I have evaluated thousands of roofs. Some only need minor repairs while some obviously need to be replaced. Most are somewhere in between. It can be difficult to decide whether or not a repair or a replacement is the best option but there are some ways a homeowner can at least understand the process better.
First and foremost, a good, honest roofer who is in it for the long haul is not interested in making a quick buck, he is interested in making a lifelong customer who will refer all his neighbors and friends. So he is more likely to push you in the direction that is the most honest or costs you the least. Get your opinions from roofers you believe you can trust.
First, date your roof. All roofs have a life expectancy. Determining whether it’s cost effective to repair or just replace it will hinge on this most important fact. If you have a 20 year warranty shingle that is 17 years old, and repairs will run $1500 but a new roof is $5000, repairs make little sense. Most tile roofs will last 30 years (the underlayment). But a good roofer can tell you what kind of underlayment you have (some last a lot longer than others). If you know how old it is, even roughly, he can tell you how long it will probably last before repairs are no longer cost effective. With tile roofs, you can often redo the roof a section at a time.
The same principle applies no matter what type of roof you have. We can help you take the guesswork out of it by giving you a free estimate on your roof. Call us at 877 7MY ROOF to arrange a free estimate.